Crop wise we are exceptionally pleased with the quality of the fruit as well as the increase in yields. We can also see the positive results to our patient approach to the harvest in the concentration and depth of the wines. By waiting to pick the grapes at optimum ripeness, even when this required picking a single vineyard in phases, is yielding fantastic results in the cellar. Earlier in March we also utilised a harvest machine, as part of a testing demonstration. The machine's delicate handling of the bunches and preciseness was very impressive.
New Vintage Releases
This month sees the release of a trio of 2013 Zevenwacht white wines under the flagship range. The first is the Zevenwacht Chenin Blanc 2013, (a Top 100 SA Wine selection), is harvested from 32-year old vines. The palate contains elements of honey, nuts and ripe pineapple with hints of yellow peach. Partially oaked, it is a wine that develops and deepens both in colour and aroma over time. As such it rewards the patient with extra complexity while offering the impatient oodles of up-front fruit and freshness.
The Zevenwacht Chardonnay 2013 is the second bottling of this noble varietal, harvested from virus-free Chardonnay material planted in 2005. This vintage has again been Barrel Fermented for 8 months. The palate is both rich and refreshing with a combination of lime-citrus and white pear flavours. Classically dry, yet luxuriously silky with superb viscosity.
Our final 2013 release this month is The Tin Mine White 2013. A creamy and aromatic Mediterranean style wine blended from Chardonnay, Viognier, Chenin Blanc and Roussane grapes. A ripe and exotic wine that is subtly oaked with a slight aroma of roasted almonds. With a 4-Star Platter rating for The Tin Mine White 2012 vintage, we have even higher expectations for the 2013 vintage.
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